"Schmelzer did not have a good game [against Austria]. Many of the alternatives are not ready, we have to keep working with Schmelzer for the next two, three, four or five months,” Low said to reporters.

However, after the 6-1 win over the Republic of Ireland, Low has retracted those comments and says he has personally apologised to the Dortmund player.

He continued: "I've looked at everything I said again and have to admit I have come across very harsh. I have apologised to him [Schmelzer] for this."

The Germany boss also stressed the importance of having a strong bench coming into their game against Sweden on Tuesday and Low made it clear he would not underestimate his next opponents.

He added: "There's always a time where you have an Iniesta on the bench, a Torres or a Villa. You need a strong bench.

"It also has to be noted that Sweden are a team with a lot of organisation and are very, very strong."